Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions Recipe
Looking for the best Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions recipe? This classic Italian-American favorite combines juicy Italian sausages with colorful bell peppers, sweet onions, garlic, and a rich tomato and herb sauce. Serve it on toasted hoagie rolls, over creamy mashed potatoes, with pasta, or alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or family gatherings.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic Italian-American comfort food
Juicy, flavorful Italian sausages
Sweet caramelized peppers and onions
One-pan recipe with easy cleanup
Ready in under 1 hour
Perfect for sandwiches or family dinners
⏱️ Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 620 kcal per serving
Protein: 28 g per serving
🛒 Ingredients
For the Sausage and Vegetables
4 Italian sausage links (sweet, hot, or a mix)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
2 large onions, sliced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce
1 cup crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
¼ cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
For Serving
4 toasted hoagie rolls
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Roasted potatoes or fries (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausages
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the sausage links for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides.
Remove from the skillet and set aside. They will finish cooking later.
Step 2: Sauté the Peppers and Onions
Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet.
Cook the sliced onions and bell peppers for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly caramelized.
Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Stir in:
Italian seasoning
Oregano
Crushed red pepper flakes (if using)
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Add:
Crushed tomatoes
Tomato paste
Chicken broth
Balsamic vinegar
Sugar (optional)
Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Finish Cooking
Return the sausages to the skillet.
Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until the sausages reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the sausages with the peppers and onions:
In toasted hoagie rolls for classic sausage sandwiches
Over mashed potatoes
With pasta
Alongside roasted potatoes
Garnish with chopped basil or parsley and grated Parmesan if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs perfectly with:
Garlic bread
Roasted potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes
Pasta
Caesar salad
Grilled vegetables
French fries
💡 Chef’s Tips
Use a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers for the best flavor and color.
Browning the sausages first adds rich, savory flavor to the sauce.
For extra depth, deglaze the skillet with a splash of dry white wine before adding the tomatoes.
Toast the hoagie rolls with a little butter for extra crunch.
🧊 Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze the cooked sausage and pepper mixture for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 620 kcal
Protein: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fat: 46 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 9 g
Sodium: 980 mg
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What type of sausage is best?
Sweet Italian sausage is traditional, but hot Italian sausage adds a spicy kick. A combination of both is a popular choice.
Can I make this without the tomato sauce?
Yes. Skip the tomatoes and finish the peppers and onions with a splash of balsamic vinegar and chicken broth for a lighter version.
Can I cook this on the grill?
Absolutely. Grill the sausages until cooked through, then serve them with peppers and onions cooked in a grill basket or cast-iron skillet.
What goes well with Italian sausage and peppers?
Hoagie rolls, roasted potatoes, pasta, polenta, garlic bread, Caesar salad, or sautéed greens are all delicious accompaniments.
